Manchester United return to Premier League action on Monday night as they host Everton at Old Trafford, with interim boss Michael Carrick brushing off fresh criticism from former club captain Roy Keane.
The row has resurfaced just days before the high-stakes Man Utd vs Everton fixture, a match that could shape United’s hopes of securing Champions League football next season.
Carrick, 44, stepped into the role temporarily last month following Ruben Amorim’s departure. Since then, United have won four of their last five league matches, lifting them into the top four race.
With Everton arriving in Manchester after beating United 1-0 earlier this season, the pressure remains firmly on.
Why has the Michael Carrick and Roy Keane row resurfaced?
The tension between Carrick and Keane dates back to earlier criticism from the former Republic of Ireland international. Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane questioned Carrick’s managerial credentials when he first took charge.
Keane also reignited a long-standing social media dispute dating back to 2014 involving Carrick’s wife, controversially suggesting she might deliver the team talks for his first game in charge.
Ahead of the Man Utd vs Everton showdown, Carrick addressed the matter in an interview with the BBC. He made it clear he has no interest in escalating the feud.
“It doesn’t bother me one bit. Genuinely, it doesn’t. I’m not going to really fall out with anyone over that. I think it’s a respect thing as much as anything, and I’ll give and take that,” Carrick said.
He added that modern players face a different media environment compared to his own playing days. “It’s a different world now than when I was coming through, but we look after them.”
How important is Man Utd vs Everton for the Premier League top-four race?
This fixture carries major implications for Manchester United’s Champions League ambitions.
United currently sit fourth in the Premier League table. A win would keep them inside the Champions League qualification spots, something that looked unlikely just a few months ago during a difficult run of form.
Earlier this season, Everton secured a narrow 1-0 victory over United. That result still stings among supporters and adds extra motivation for Monday night’s return fixture at Old Trafford.
Premier League Form Snapshot
| Team | Wins | Draws | Losses | Points Gained |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester United | 4 | 0 | 1 | 12 |
| Everton | 2 | 1 | 2 | 7 |
Form based on the latest five league matches.
United’s recent run has steadied the club after months of uncertainty. Another victory would strengthen their grip on fourth place and pile pressure on rivals chasing European qualification.
Could Michael Carrick become a permanent Man Utd manager?
The Man Utd vs Everton clash also adds to the wider debate about Carrick’s future.
Carrick has openly described the role as his dream job. “For me, it’s the ultimate role. I love being here, and while I’m here, I’ll give everything I can,” he said.
🟥🗣Michael Carrick on pundits holding opinions about him:
“It does NOT bother me one bit. Genuinely, it doesn’t.
“I’m not going to really fall out with ANYONE over that. I think it’s a respect thing as much as anything and I’ll give and take that.
“I think for younger players… pic.twitter.com/2dspRlPNYN
— United Pride (@UtdPride) February 20, 2026
Manchester United’s hierarchy is believed to be assessing long-term options. Reports suggest they have monitored candidates, including Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto De Zerbi, while Thomas Tuchel and Carlo Ancelotti appear committed to their current international and club roles.
Carrick’s situation mirrors that of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who initially took charge on an interim basis before being handed the job permanently.
If United finish in the top four, Carrick’s case strengthens significantly.
What are fans saying ahead of the Man Utd vs Everton clash?
Supporters remain divided. Some fans praise Carrick for restoring stability and improving results. Others argue the club should pursue an experienced elite manager to compete consistently for titles.
Public sentiment reflects cautious optimism. Many United fans now see a realistic path back to Europe’s top competition.
Why does this match matter beyond three points?
The Man Utd vs Everton fixture is more than a routine league game.
It represents:
- A test of Carrick’s authority under scrutiny
- A chance for redemption after the earlier 1-0 defeat
- A pivotal moment in the Champions League qualification race
- A symbolic response to outside criticism
Momentum often defines Premier League seasons. United has rebuilt theirs. Everton will aim to disrupt it.
